Azzedine Alaïa (b.1940) opened his ready-to-wear business in Paris in 1980, after having worked at Mugler, Guy Laroche, and Dior. He is known for his work in knits and Lycra, especially that done in the mid 1980s. His designs were generally made from black or dark solid colors, and his dresses were tight, showing off every curve. Many feature a deeply scooped back. Alaïa still designs, and is based in Paris.

There is nothing more beautiful than a healthy body dressed in wonderful clothes. – Azzedine Alaïa